UAP's starting IV's

[TIGG1967]

I had posted a thread on Feb 13 and didn't get many responses. I am meeting with our physicians this week and would like some feedback. We have an employee that has taken a course in Phlebotomy, Veinpuncture, and Skin Puncture Procedures. She has expressed interest in utilizing her skills, under the direct supervision of an Anesthesiologist, the surgeon, and an RN. She will give no medication, or set the rate or start the flow on the IV. She would be responsible only for accessing the vein and attaching it to the microbore from the bag of IV fluids the physician brings to the OR. Is there any feedback on this subject that anyone can offer either for or against her being able to perform this task.

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

[Lurksalot, BSN, RN]

We have UAP as part of a "team" where I work, and it is nice when they are available to do hard sticks, especially on the M/S floor. Personally I think it is a good idea and a good resource, and if the individual is already certified it makes sense to take advantage of her skills, under supervision of course.

[Town & Country]

Makes sense to me, as long as she/he knew the bounds and stayed within them. Would give alot of help to the RNs.

[Katnip, RN]

Our techs always start IVs. Most of them are really good at it and it saves a lot of time. None of them would dream of actually starting fluids or meds, just giving access.